Although there have been a couple of mountain lion attacks down here, including at least one fatality, maybe two if I recall correctly, I agree that far more people are killed or injured due to getting lost and dying from exposure. It happened a couple of years ago to a PCT hiker up above Palm Springs. He's the one whose gear was found by the lost couple and that saved them.

I also agree that beginners may not realize they are doing something risky. When I was diving, I think even as a beginner, I could figure out what was risky and what wasn't, but for hiking, it is much different because good weather can create a false sense of security.